Fairytale Destinations - Hobbiton, New Zealand

Since we're in the neighborhood (last Monday's post) how about a quick jaunt over to another fairytale setting, Hobbiton. When Peter Jackson spotted the Alexander Farm during an aerial search of the North Island for the best possible locations to film The Lord of The Rings film trilogy, he immediately thought it was perfect for Hobbiton. Site construction started in March 1999 and filming commenced in December that year, continuing for three months. The set was rebuilt in 2011 for the Hobbit Trilogy.

It is now a permanent attraction complete with hobbit holes, gardens, bridge, Mill and The Green Dragon Inn. For your own Middle-earth adventure, daily tours are available to visit the original Hobbiton Movie Set from The Lord of the Rings movie trilogy and The Hobbit films. Hobbiton has more than 44 unique hobbit holes, including Bag End (Bilbo's house). As you wander through the heart of the Shire, you'll get to hear the fascinating commentary about how it was all created.

Food and Drink
The Green Dragon Inn is a replica of the inn that featured in The middle earth based movies. Masterfully recreated, you are invited to relax at the Inn of the Hobbits as part of your tour. All guests receive one complimentary refreshment from their exclusively crafted Southfarthing range. The inn also offers traditional fare, including their famous beef and ale pie.

Another place to rest and relax is in the Shires Rest café, conveniently located at the Entrance to Hobbiton Movie Set. You can relax and soak up the unique atmosphere with a great cup of coffee or a light meal in The Shires Rest Cafe.  Both venues are also available for functions, conferences or other occasions. 

Shopping
Situated below The Shire's Rest Cafe, The Shire Store features many items that will tempt the enthusiast or the general shopper. In the Shire Store you can purchase a wide range of products and in the Ticketing Office the friendly staff can assist you in booking your tour of Hobbiton Movie Set. Make sure you allow plenty of time to allow a visit to the store and soak up the themed atmosphere and browse the many items for sale. These include hand-crafted items from Weta Studios, exclusive Southfarthing beverages, woolen products, cloaks from Stansborough Fibers, books and memorabilia from Hobbiton Movie Set. The Shire Store is open seven days a week. 

The Tour
Your guided tour starts with a drive through the picturesque 1,250 acre sheep farm with spectacular views across to the Kaimai Ranges. Take a look at Bag End, where Frodo and Bilbo’s adventures began. Get lost among the hobbit holes and visit the Green Dragon Inn, the mill and the Party Tree. Listen to spell-binding tales of how Hobbiton came to be. Tours depart daily from the Shire's Rest Cafe, 501 Buckland Road Matamata and from the Matamata & Rotorua.

If you'd like to stay awhile, comfortable Farmstay accommodation can be arranged for you in Matamata. Matamata is a must see if you're a Lord of the Rings and Hobbit fan. Take a guided tour of the Hobbiton Movie Set and enjoy the town's fabulous cafes.

Two hours south of Auckland lies the lush farmland of the Hamilton - Waikato region. Famous for dairying and fine thoroughbred horses, it's easy to see why these green pastures and rolling hills were chosen to portray Hobbiton and The Shire. 

Let Rawhide Travel and Tours help you with all your business and leisure travel needs. Call us at (602) 843-5100 or visit our website: rawhidetravel.com.

Presented By:
Rawhide Travel and Tours Inc.
6008 West Bell Rd # F105
Glendale, Arizona 85308-3793
602-843-5100
rawhidetravel.com